Sweet 16 in the USVI
I’m not a professional photographer. When I look at these photos, I don’t see shutter speeds or lighting setups—I see the moments that shaped me.
In 2020, I spent my 16th birthday in St. Thomas with my mom, my best friend Maya, and her mom. It was a trip that reminded me that the most important “content” we ever create is the time we spend with the people who ground us. These images are just snapshots of a week where I did a lot of growing up.
Traveling with my mom for such a big birthday was a lesson in gratitude. This trip wasn’t about the “cool” things we did; it was about the conversations we had and the way she’s supported me through every stage of my life. This photo is a reminder that no matter how far I travel, I always have a home in her.
Maya and I have been through everything together, but there’s something different about navigating a new place with your best friend. This shot captures the pure joy of being sixteen and feeling invincible. We weren’t worried about the “perfect” photo; we were just busy living the moment.
